Los Angeles County homicide detectives are asking the public to help track down people seen near a daylight attack on West Imperial that left a 78-year-old man dead weeks later.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department says the assault happened around 10:35 a.m. on July 9, 2025, on the 1700 block of West Imperial. The victim, identified by investigators as 78-year-old Dong Wie Ma, was attacked during what officials describe as an apparent theft. He was hospitalized after the incident and died on August 19, 2025, while recovering.
Detectives Share Surveillance Images, Ask Public To Step Up
In a Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department post, homicide detectives released surveillance stills and urged anyone who recognizes the people in the images to contact investigators. The department describes the incident as an apparent theft and confirms the attack occurred on July 9, 2025. Tipsters are asked to call the Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.
Obituary Details Match Investigators' Timeline
An online obituary for a man named Dong Chan Wie lists his age as 78 and records his date of death as August 19, 2025, lining up with the timeline provided by authorities. The notice shows that funeral services were held at Rose Hills in Whittier.
How To Share Information Or Video
Officials are asking anyone with video or other potential evidence from the area and timeframe of the attack to preserve it and contact detectives. For those who prefer to remain anonymous, law enforcement directs tips to LA Regional Crime Stoppers. Tipsters can call 1-800-222-8477, use the P3 Tips app, or submit a report via lacrimestoppers.org.
Case Tied To Wider Wave Of Distraction Thefts
The killing comes amid a broader wave of “distraction” and jewelry thefts that law enforcement highlighted in 2025, crimes that have frequently targeted older adults and triggered public warnings from local agencies. Coverage of the spike was carried by local outlets, including the Korea Daily and local TV reports.
Ongoing Probe At County Homicide Bureau
Detectives say the investigation remains active and that they will review every tip and any new footage that surfaces. The county's Homicide Bureau operates out of 1 Cupania Circle in Monterey Park, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office.
